The Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) is excited to announce the appointment of Alexandra Manuel as its new Executive Director. The PESB concluded a rigorous, deliberative search of candidates that culminated with the selection of Director Manuel in a Special Meeting of the Board on Friday, February 2.

The members of the board expressed enthusiastic support of the leadership of Ms. Manuel through a unanimous vote of approval. “The Board is eagerly looking forward to the progressive, collaborative approach to leading that Alex employs,” stated Chairman Luke Thomas. “This decision is a reflection of her impressive skill set and the confidence that PESB members have in her ability to guide the entire agency to fulfill its charge in a manner that effectively empowers educators in Washington State to meet the needs of every student.”

Prior to her appointment, Alexandra served in a myriad of roles that have positively impacted student learning. Alexandra’s experience as a strategic leader has focused on education policy that expands access to educator preparation and advances equity to support student success. Alexandra brings her skills in community engagement, systems integration, and change management from her employment and consulting experience in both private and public organizations including Highline College, Seattle University, City of Auburn, the YMCA, City of Seattle, and University of Washington. Alexandra earned her B.A. degree at George Mason University in Organizational Development and Social Change and her Masters in Education from Seattle University.

Alexandra looks forward to bringing her passion and experience to the PESB. About her recent appointment, Alexandra stated, “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Professional Educator Standards Board and the Paraeducator Board in its strategic efforts to support the success of all students in Washington schools. To ensure this we must lead in preparing, engaging and retaining our educators. I look forward to advancing PESB’s policy and workforce development roles in continued collaboration with the education community in Washington.”